7 Things I Wish I’d Done Sooner for Healthier Skin and a Stronger Immune System

Ever wondered why some people naturally have that radiant, healthy glow while others struggle with dull or problematic skin? The answer lies in your skin microbiome—a tiny world of microorganisms living on your skin that could be the key to not only looking great but also boosting your immune system. In this broadcast, we'll examine what the skin microbiome is, why it matters, and how you can nurture it for healthier, more vibrant skin. I’ll share my personal journey from struggling with acne to achieving radiant skin by making simple, effective changes. From understanding the essential roles of bacteria, fungi, and even mites on your skin to practical tips on maintaining a balanced microbiome, this program has everything you need to know for glowing skin and overall well-being. Stay tuned for actionable practical tips to take care of your skin from the inside out, and don't miss out on the bonus energy-healing practices to elevate your skin’s health even further. Share this episode with someone who could benefit, and be sure to give it a thumbs up to support our channel!

Links mentioned in this episode:

Hyperbiotics prebiotic powder:  https://amzn.to/34Cj7Hq 

Probiotic PB8 capsules: https://amzn.to/3pcqJws  

11-min destressing audio:  https://scientifichealer.com/wakeupbrain

Connect with me, no obligation, to discover more about becoming healed or learning how to heal: https://healersu.com/appointment

Ever wondered why some people have that natural, healthy glow, while others struggle with dull, problematic skin? It’s more than just your wrinkles and gray hair.  The secret may lie in something you can't see—your skin microbiome. Now don’t get creeped out: This tiny world of microorganisms living on your skin could be the key to not only looking great but also boosting your immune system. Stay tuned to hear about what a skin microbiome is and does for you plus  how you can promote radiant health inside and out by taking good care of your skin microbiome."

Your skin is the first thing people notice when they meet you—it's your body’s outermost layer, and it says a lot about your health and well-being. I know firsthand how challenging it can be when your skin doesn’t reflect how you feel inside or how well you take care of yourself. As someone who suffered from teenage and later adult acne, I can tell you it was more than just frustrating—it was really embarrassing. I ate right, exercised, and did all those things we’re supposed to take care of myself, yet my skin seemed determined to tell a different story. It wasn’t until I started practicing some of the tips you’ll find in today’s broadcast did things changed dramatically for the better. Now I get shocked looks when I tell people my age.   You’ll hear what I did as did some of my clients and students, so you can take control of your skin health and feel great about the face you show to the world. Stick around because these tips could be just what you’ve been looking for.

What is the Skin Microbiome?

It’s a complex ecosystem that resides on your body's largest organ—the skin. The last episode, I talked about the gut microbiome.  The skin system is slightly different as it has less to feed on.  However, this ecosystem is still home to a vast array of microorganisms, including bacteria, viruses, fungi, and even tiny mites, all of which live on your skin’s surface and within its layers. It sounds icky, but Don’t worry, they are here to help you.  We have many symbiotic systems in the body, and these skin microbes aren’t just random inhabitants; they play essential roles in maintaining your skin's health, protecting you from external threats, and interacting with your immune system in ways that scientists are just beginning to understand.

What exactly is in the skin microbiome?

1. The majority of the microorganisms on your skin are bacteria. They belong to hundreds of different species, with 3  prominent groups.

These bacteria are not harmful; in fact, they are critical for your skin’s health. For example, one of them lives in hair follicles and helps to protect the skin by producing substances that inhibit the growth of harmful bacteria.

2. Fungi are also present on the skin. These organisms are particularly abundant in oily areas like the scalp and face. While most of the time these fungi coexist peacefully with their host, they can sometimes contribute to conditions like dandruff or seborrheic dermatitis if the balance is disturbed. I’ll mention later how to keep the balance intact.

3. The skin also hosts various viruses, many of which are called bacteriophages—viruses that infect bacteria. These viral entities help regulate bacterial populations, ensuring that no single species dominates the microbiome, which could lead to infections or skin disorders.

4. You even have tiny mites living on your skin, one type of which resides in hair follicles and feeds on dead skin cells. These mites are usually harmless, but an overpopulation can sometimes lead to conditions like rosacea.

Why the Skin Microbiome Matters:

Understanding and caring for your skin microbiome isn’t just about avoiding skin conditions—it’s about overall health. A healthy skin microbiome acts as a shield against pathogens, reduces the risk of chronic inflammation, and even plays a role in preventing autoimmune diseases. By fostering a balanced and diverse microbiome, you not only improve your skin’s appearance but also bolster your immune system, making you more resilient against infections and environmental stresses.

What Does the Skin Microbiome Do for Us?

The skin microbiome is like a highly skilled team of workers, each performing specific tasks that contribute to your overall health. Here’s a closer look at the diverse roles this microbial community plays in maintaining and enhancing your well-being:

1. One of the most critical roles of the skin microbiome is defending against harmful pathogens. The good bacteria on your skin outcompete the bad ones, preventing them from taking hold and causing infections. They do this by producing antimicrobial substances, such as bacteriocins, which specifically target and destroy harmful bacteria.

The skin’s slightly acidic pH (around 4.5 to 5.5) is partly maintained by the microbiome. This acidic environment discourages the growth of harmful pathogens that prefer more neutral or alkaline conditions, thus providing an extra layer of protection.

2. The microbiome reinforces the skin barrier by producing lipids, proteins, and other molecules that help maintain the integrity and hydration of the skin. A healthy microbiome ensures that your skin remains flexible, hydrated, and resilient.

When your skin is wounded, the microbiome plays a role in the healing process. Some beneficial bacteria produce substances that promote the migration of skin cells to the wound site, accelerating the repair process and help modulate the immune response to prevent excessive inflammation, which can delay healing.

3. Certain bacteria in the skin microbiome are involved in the production of essential nutrients, like vitamins B2 (riboflavin) and B3 (niacin). These vitamins are crucial for maintaining healthy skin, supporting cell repair, and reducing inflammation.

4. Some microbes within the skin microbiomeproduce antioxidants that help neutralize harmful free radicals generated by UV radiation and pollution. These antioxidants protect your skin cells from oxidative stress, which can lead to premature aging, pigmentation issues, and even skin cancer.

The skin microbiome also plays a role in detoxifying harmful substances that come into contact with your skin. Certain bacteria can break down toxic chemicals, reducing their potential to cause harm. This detoxifying ability is particularly important in urban environments where pollution is a significant concern.

5. The microbiome helps regulate the production of sebum, the natural oil your skin produces. Balanced sebum production is crucial for maintaining hydrated, glowing skin. An imbalance, however, can lead to conditions like acne or overly dry skin A well-balanced microbiome can help prevent common skin disorders like eczema, psoriasis, and rosacea. These conditions are often linked to microbial imbalances, where harmful bacteria or fungi overtake beneficial ones, leading to inflammation and skin damage

By supporting the production of collagen and elastin, the microbiome helps maintain your skin’s elasticity and firmness. This contributes to a youthful appearance and reduces the formation of fine lines and wrinkles.

6.  There’s a growing body of research suggesting a connection between your skin microbiome and your mental health, often referred to as the "mind-skin connection." A healthy microbiome can influence your mood and stress levels by interacting with the nervous system through the production of neurotransmitters like serotonin, which is often dubbed the "feel-good" chemical. The skin microbiome is closely linked with the gut microbiome, forming what’s known as the gut-skin axis. Imbalances in gut bacteria can manifest as skin problems, and vice versa. Maintaining a healthy skin microbiome can thus have positive effects on your gut health and overall immune function.

How the Skin Microbiome Interacts with the Immune System:

Your skin microbiome plays a pivotal role in educating and modulating your immune system. Here’s how:

1. Your skin microorganisms constantly interact with your immune cells to train them, particularly those in the epidermis (the outermost layer of skin). This helps your immune system to recognize harmful invaders versus your beneficial organisms. This means your immune system learns not to overreact which leads to inflammation or autoimmune responses.

2. There’s a strong connection between your skin microbiome and your gut microbiome. These two microbial communities communicate through your immune system, impacting everything from inflammation levels to your skin’s appearance. For instance, an imbalance in gut bacteria can manifest as skin conditions, highlighting the interconnected nature of your body's microbial ecosystems.  This is why taking care of both microbiomes is so important.

And here’s what you’ve been waiting for: 

How to Best Take Care of Your Skin Microbiome

Maintaining a healthy skin microbiome is essential not just for glowing skin, but for overall health and well-being. Here’s how you can best take care of your skin microbiome to ensure it thrives and continues to protect and nourish your skin:

1. Avoid Harsh Soaps: Harsh soaps and cleansers can strip away the natural oils and beneficial bacteria on your skin. This disrupts the delicate balance of the microbiome, leaving your skin vulnerable to dryness, irritation, and infections. Instead, opt for gentle, pH-balanced cleansers that clean without compromising the skin’s natural protective barrier. Less is more when it comes to skincare. Overwashing or using too many products can disturb the microbiome. Stick to a simple cleansing routine that removes dirt and pollutants without overloading your skin with chemicals

2. Avoid Antibacterial Soaps: While antibacterial soaps and hand sanitizers can be useful in certain situations, frequent use can harm your skin microbiome. These products kill both harmful and beneficial bacteria, disrupting the microbial balance and potentially leading to issues like dermatitis and eczema Alcohol-Based Hand Sanitizers: If you need to use hand sanitizers, choose alcohol-based ones rather than those containing triclosan or other harsh antibacterial agents. Alcohol-based sanitizers are effective at killing harmful germs without disrupting the skin microbiome as severely.

3. Choose Natural, Non-Toxic Moisturizers: Your skin needs moisture to maintain its barrier function and support the microbiome. Look for moisturizers that are free of synthetic fragrances, parabens, and other potentially harmful chemicals. Natural ingredients like aloe vera, shea butter, and coconut oil can help nourish your skin without disrupting the microbiome. >Prebiotics and Probiotics in Skincare: Some skincare products now include prebiotics (which feed the good bacteria) and probiotics (which add beneficial bacteria) to help maintain a healthy skin microbiome. These can be particularly helpful if your skin is prone to imbalances or irritation.

4.  Support from the Inside Out: Your diet plays a crucial role in the health of your skin microbiome. Eating a balanced diet rich in vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants supports both your gut and skin health. Foods like leafy greens, fatty fish, nuts, and seeds provide essential nutrients that keep your skin—and its microbiome—healthy.

Consuming foods rich in probiotics (like fermented vegetables) and prebiotics (such as garlic, onions, and bananas) can help support a balanced gut microbiome, which in turn positively influences your skin microbiome.  You can also get good quality supplements, see links above.

5. Air pollution can damage your skin and disrupt its microbiome by introducing harmful particles and chemicals. Protect your skin by using antioxidant-rich skincare products that help neutralize these toxins.

Additionally, washing your face after exposure to pollution can help remove harmful particles before they cause damage. Avoid Harsh Chemicals: Be mindful of the products you use, both on your skin and in your environment.

Cleaning products, laundry detergents, and even perfumes can contain harsh chemicals that may negatively affect your skin microbiome. Opt for natural or hypoallergenic alternatives when possible.

6. While exfoliation can help remove dead skin cells and promote cell turnover, over-exfoliating can strip away the beneficial microbes on your skin, leading to imbalances. Use gentle exfoliants, like those containing natural enzymes or mild acids, and limit exfoliation to once or twice a week.

Skip the Scrubs: Avoid abrasive physical scrubs, which can damage your skin’s surface and disturb the microbiome. Instead, opt for chemical exfoliants that gently dissolve dead skin cells without harming the healthy bacteria.

7.  Practice Good Hygiene without Overdoing It:  While daily showers are a part of many people’s routines, try not to use overly hot water or stay in for too long, as this can dry out your skin and disrupt the microbiome.

Focus on cleaning key areas and avoid over-scrubbing the entire body. Change Clothes Regularly: Wearing clean clothes, especially those that come into direct contact with your skin, helps prevent the buildup of harmful bacteria and fungi that could disrupt the microbiome.

8.  Protecting your skin from UV damage is crucial, but some sunscreens can be harsh on your microbiome. Choose broad-spectrum, mineral-based sunscreens with natural ingredients to avoid irritation and disruption. Natural Sun Protection: In addition to sunscreen, wearing protective clothing and seeking shade can help reduce your exposure to UV rays, minimizing the risk of sunburns that can damage the skin and its microbiome.

9. While cleanliness is important, an overly sanitized environment can reduce your exposure to beneficial microbes that help train your immune system and maintain a healthy skin microbiome. Allowing some exposure to natural environments, like spending time outdoors, can help support a diverse and robust microbiome

10 . Chronic stress can negatively affect your skin microbiome by altering hormone levels and triggering inflammation.  Deep Breathing Exercises: Incorporating deep, mindful breathing into your daily routine can significantly benefit your skin.

Breathing deeply and slowly helps oxygenate your blood, which in turn nourishes your skin cells and supports a healthy microbiome. Yoga and walking are also great destressing methods and oxygenating your skin.  Try starting your day with a few minutes of deep breathing—imagine golden healing energy filling your lungs and spreading to every part of your body, including your skin.  

Stress and negative energy can impact your skin by disrupting your body’s natural processes, including the balance of your microbiome. Regularly clearing your energy field—through practices like smudging with sage, using crystals, or visualizing a white light cleansing your body—can help maintain harmony within your skin’s ecosystem. This balance allows your skin to function optimally and remain resilient against external stressors.

Adequate sleep is essential for maintaining healthy skin. During sleep, your body repairs and regenerates, including the skin and its microbiome. Aim for 7-9 hours of quality sleep each night to support overall skin health. Visualization is a powerful tool in energy healing. Each day, take a moment to visualize your skin glowing with health and vitality. Imagine the beneficial bacteria on your skin flourishing, creating a protective shield that enhances your complexion and overall health.

This practice can help you set a positive intention for your skin’s healing and well-being. Using grounding, centering, and walking on grass, sand or soil allows your body to calm and release stress and anxiety.  You can download an 11-minute healing audio that will do some of this energy hygiene for you.  Https://scientifichealer.com/wakeupbrainto download it.   

This is a long list of tips to follow.  Incorporate them one at a time to help you nurture your skin microbiome, ensuring it remains balanced, resilient, and capable of supporting your overall health. Taking care of this microscopic community is a key step in maintaining not just beautiful skin, but also a strong and effective immune system.

When your skin is healthy, you feel more confident, more vibrant, and ready to tackle whatever life throws at you. I hope these tips help you as much as they’ve helped me.

Make a no-obligation appointment with me to explore receiving healing, learning how to heal, or both, at https://healersu.com/appointment 

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